دراسة العوامل المؤثرة في التحاق الشباب الجامعي بقسم التربية الخاصة

Abstract EN

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of the different factors on the increasing number of high school students interested in joining the special education departments and pursuing a career in teaching children with special needs.

The study analyzes the influence of different factors such as: family factors, monetary incentives, different aspects of the educational system: (curriculum, school programs, and inclusive programs) and media presentations of issues related to individuals with special needs.

A survey was distributed to 183 students currently enrolled in the Special Education department at the College of Education in Jeddah during the academic year 1428 – 1427 Hijri calendar (2006 – 2007 Georgian calendar).

The survey focused on why those students chose a career in special education.

The results of the study showed that the monetary incentive is a major factor influencing students’ choice; 98.9% of the participants chose the financial factor, as a contributing factor to their enrollment in the special education field.

Also, the fact that the graduates of the special education department are hired faster was the second most influencing factor; 96.27% chose the special education department as their chances of finding employment is faster.

Another factor that contributed by 77.1% was the influence of family members and friends who work in the same field of special education.